How One Person Can Control Two Robots as a Team

This patent describes a system where a single operator can control two separate robots together as one unified machine, or switch to control them individually, using a master control system.

What it covers

The patent describes a robotic system that lets a single operator control two separate robots, referred to as a "first robotic system" and a "second robotic system," either together or individually. In a "paired control mode" (Claim 1), a master control system's "drive input device" (like a joystick or steering wheel) can jointly move both robots' "mobile platforms" (their bases that move them around) as if they were a single, larger machine (Claim 3). For example, if you push forward on the joystick, both robots move forward in sync. The system can also switch to an "unpaired control mode" (Claim 5), allowing the operator to control just one of the robots at a time using the same drive input. This switch is done with a "switch input device" on the master system. Additionally, if both robots have "manipulators" (robot arms), the master system can also control both arms together in a "paired manipulator control mode" (Claim 7).

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover systems where a single robot is controlled by a master system.
• —Does not cover controlling multiple robots without the ability to switch between paired and unpaired control modes.
• —Does not cover systems where the "unified robotic system" is physically connected or a single, monolithic machine.
• —Does not cover multi-robot systems where each robot is controlled by a separate human operator.
• —Does not cover robots that cannot autonomously move into a paired position relative to each other.

The clever bit

The novelty lies in the unified control system that makes two distinct, mobile robots behave as a single, larger machine for movement and manipulation, while also allowing seamless switching to individual control. This provides both the power of a large system and the agility of smaller units.

Why it matters

This technology is important for tasks requiring heavy lifting, complex manipulation, or working in hazardous environments where a single, large robot might be too cumbersome or expensive. By allowing two smaller, more agile robots to work together as one, it offers flexibility and efficiency. This approach could reduce the number of human operators needed for complex tasks, improving safety and productivity in industrial or dangerous settings.

Real-world examples

• 1.Robots used for heavy lifting in construction or logistics.
• 2.Robots for hazardous material handling or bomb disposal.
• 3.Robots for maintenance or inspection in large industrial facilities.
• 4.Robots for search and rescue operations in complex terrain.